The South China Sea is characterized by competing territorial claims from China, the Philippines, and several other Southeast Asian nations. As regional dynamics continue to evolve, these stakeholders are seeking to leverage diplomacy and new frameworks to address long-standing issues surrounding the contested waters. In this three-part series, the South China Morning Post delves into how these diplomatic efforts may reshape the interactions among claimants and influence regional stability. As the Philippines prepares to assume the ASEAN chair in 2026, it has prioritized the establishment of a code of conduct for the South China Sea, aiming to finalize it within its term. This initiative is seen as crucial for not only reinforcing the Philippines’ territorial claims but also for fostering cooperation among ASEAN member states. The potential success of this endeavor could set a precedent for future regional agreements, playing a pivotal role in stabilizing the area. Additionally, the recent implementation of the High Seas Treaty is poised to change the dynamics of the South China Sea dispute by establishing frameworks for the protection of marine biodiversity across areas that lie beyond national jurisdictions. This treaty offers a new mechanism for countries to navigate shared concerns over ecological preservation while addressing overlapping territorial claims, potentially transforming the nature of cooperation in one of the world's most contentious maritime zones.